Validating Prehistoric and Current Social Phenomena Upon the Landscape of the Peten, GuatemalaThe Peten, once inhabited by a population of several million before the collapse of the ancient Maya in the 10th and 11th centuries, is being repopulated toward its former demographic peak. Environmental dynamics, however, impose severe constraints to further development. Current practices in subsistence, commercial agriculture, and cattle raising are causing rapid deforestation on a scale that can only result in soil loss and regional degradation. In view of the current deforestation trends, the question emerges as to how millions of ancient Maya lived successfully in the area for centuries when relatively fewer occupants today threaten the sustainability of the landscape with current agricultural practices. The use of remote sensing technology is a cost-effective methodology for addressing issues in Maya archeology as well as monitoring the environmental impacts being experienced by the current population.
Document ID
19990079780
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Abstract
Authors
Sever, Thomas L. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL United States)